ACC: Error When Importing dBASE, FoxPro, or Paradox Table

• Microsoft Access versions 1.0, 1.1, 2.0, 7.0, 97

SYMPTOMS

Novice: Requires knowledge of the user interface on single-user computers.

In Microsoft Access 97, when you import a Paradox file that does not contain a file extension as part of its name or does not follow the MS-DOS 8.3 file name format (that is, an 8-character name followed by a 3-character extension), you may receive the following error message:

   The Microsoft Jet database engine could not find the object
   '<filename>'. Make sure the object exists and that you spell its name
   and the path name correctly.

   NOTE: This error may also occur with a dBASE file in Microsoft Access
   97, if the file name does not follow the MS-DOS 8.3 file name format.

   Couldn't find object '<filename>'

   Couldn't find object '<filename>'

RESOLUTION

Rename the file so that it has an extension. It does not have to be the correct extension, such as .dbf for a dBASE file, but it must have some file extension.

STATUS

Microsoft has confirmed this to be a problem in Microsoft Access 1.x, 2.0, 7.0, and 97. We are researching this problem and will post new information here in the Microsoft Knowledge Base as it becomes available.

MORE INFORMATION

Steps to Reproduce Problem

The following steps use a Paradox file as an example. You can also use a dBASE or FoxPro file to reproduce the error in Microsoft Access 1.x.

1. Rename a Paradox file so that it has no extension. For example, rename Customer.db to Customer.

2. Open a Microsoft Access database.

3. Import the file:

   In Microsoft Access 7.0 and 97:

       a. On the File menu, point to Get External Data and then click
          Import.
   

       b. In the Import dialog box, click Paradox (*.db) in the Files of
          Type box.
   

       c. Type *.* in the File Name box.
   

       d. Select the Paradox file you created in step 1.
   

       e. Click Import.
   

   In Microsoft Access 1.x and 2.0:

       a. On the File menu, click Import.
   

       b. In the Import dialog box, click the appropriate version of
          Paradox, and then click OK.
   

       c. In the List Files Of Type box, click All Files (*.*).
   

       d. Select the file you created in step 1.
   

       e. Click Import.